
Mikel reveals how he secured World Cup bonuses for Super Eagles
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has shared how he intervened to secure players’ bonuses after the 2018 World Cup. According to Mikel, repeated promises from officials failed to deliver the owed payments. He said he contacted the office of then-president Muhammadu Buhari to resolve the issue. The money was delivered within 24 hours, ensuring the players received what they were promised.
Match highlights
- John Obi Mikel revealed he called Abba Kyari, chief of staff to Muhammadu Buhari, to get the 2018 World Cup bonuses paid.
- Players had been waiting for months, with officials repeatedly assuring Mikel the money would arrive.
- After contacting the presidency, millions of dollars were delivered to the team’s hotel within a day.
- The bonuses were distributed to all players involved in the World Cup qualifiers the next day.
- Mikel said his actions angered senior officials, but he insisted the money was owed and not a favour.